Peter Obi Camp Confirms Talks With PDP, Other Parties Ahead Of 2027 Elections
In what could become a historic political realignment, the camp of Peter Obi has confirmed that consultations are ongoing with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political groups ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
This disclosure was made on Thursday in Abuja by Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, who affirmed that the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate remained open to alliances focused on rescuing the country from its prevailing socio-economic turmoil.
“It is no longer a secret. The PDP has made and is still making overtures,” Yunusa declared. “They are beckoning on Mr. Peter Obi — several of their leaders have spoken publicly about this.”
Dr. Yunusa reiterated that Obi’s openness to dialogue is grounded in the vision to build a more inclusive and sustainable Nigeria. “Our principal has said time and again, he remains open to discussions that will lead to the rescue of Nigeria from our present precarious socio-economic predicaments,” he stated.
“It has never been about Peter Obi as a person. It has always been about Nigeria and the Nigerian people.”
When pressed on the details of the ongoing political negotiations, Yunusa maintained that the talks were still in the early stages.
“Discussions are ongoing and when the time comes, he will make whatever decision has been taken collectively in the interest of our nation Nigeria.”
He stressed that Nigeria’s future could only be secured through a concerted, non-partisan national effort.
“The opposition has since realised that the task before all who are genuinely interested in bequeathing a Nigeria future generations would be proud of is one that can only be achieved with unity of purpose.”
Dr. Katch Onanuju, a political analyst and founding member of the Obidient Movement, echoed Yunusa’s sentiments in a telephone interview, describing the ongoing talks as a “healthy development.”
He contextualised the discussions within a broader historical lens, stating, “Most of the problems the opposition is trying to solve today began in the PDP. The solution can also be found when the PDP and other opposition parties come together to tackle the elephant in the room.”
Onanuju recalled how Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and other high-profile politicians left the PDP in the lead-up to the 2023 elections, primarily due to unresolved issues around zoning and internal equity.
YOU MAY READ
2027: Peter Obi Is Part of the Coalition From Day One, Yet to Be ADC Member – Spokesman
“It was the refusal of the party to zone the presidential ticket to the South after eight years of President Buhari, a northerner, that angered most party leaders, especially southerners, which led to the mass exodus,” Onanuju noted.
He cited the actions of the G5 governors, led by Nyesom Wike, who remained in the PDP but opposed its presidential candidate in protest.
“Another opportunity to correct this mistake is again presenting itself as we approach 2027,” he said. “It is an opportunity to right the wrongs and give every part of Nigeria a sense of belonging.”
Adding more weight to the possibility of Obi reuniting with the PDP, Professor Jerry Gana, a founding PDP member and elder statesman, offered his endorsement of Obi’s political viability during an appearance on Arise TV.
Gana stated that if Obi were selected as the PDP candidate, he would be a formidable contender given his track record and mass appeal, particularly among young Nigerians.
“He has already proven that he can lead a movement that resonates with Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines,” Gana said. “If the PDP truly wants to win in 2027, it cannot ignore the momentum Obi carries.”
Peter Obi’s reemergence in national political conversations comes two years after he ran a groundbreaking campaign under the Labour Party banner in the 2023 general elections. He had previously resigned from the PDP in May 2022 following zoning disagreements.
Obi’s campaign tapped into widespread frustration among Nigerian youth, catalysing the Obidient Movement into one of the most significant grassroots political campaigns in recent Nigerian history.
His presidential bid, though unsuccessful in clinching the presidency, positioned him as a new face of the opposition and a potential rallying figure for a broader coalition in 2027.
As political permutations unfold, several analysts have pointed to the urgency of opposition unity in the face of perceived underperformance by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). With growing discontent over economic instability, insecurity, and governance shortfalls, the demand for credible alternatives is intensifying.
Analysts suggest that if figures like Obi and Atiku can find common ground — potentially with the inclusion of younger emerging leaders and regional stakeholders — it could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Dr. Yunusa hinted at such ambitions: “If alliances are built on shared values and genuine national interest, we can begin to chart a new course for Nigeria.”
Whether these talks culminate in a merger, coalition, or strategic endorsements remains to be seen. However, the public confirmation of discussions by key figures within the Obidient Movement has set the stage for what could become a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political narrative.
As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 elections, one thing is clear: the road to Aso Rock may now require not just party strength, but coalition clarity.